Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

Alcohol-related DUI has long been a leading cause of substance abuse fatalities in Pittsburgh. However, recently, there has been a worrying surge in traffic fatalities involving drug impairment. The Pittsburgh police are cracking down on this offense, often apprehending drug users behind the wheel. The penalties for drug-related driving offenses are severe, making it crucial to enlist the services of an experienced Pittsburgh Drugged Driving Lawyer who can provide a robust defense.

What You Need to Know?

Under the law, if any controlled substances or metabolites are found in your bloodstream or if a combination of drugs and alcohol impairs your driving abilities, you can be charged with DUI. It’s important to note that the state laws pertaining to drugged driving closely mirror those for drunk driving. Law enforcement officers are trained to look for signs of impairment that jeopardize road safety, such as weaving, driving below the speed limit, and failure to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. When you’re pulled over, the police will assess physical signs of impairment, including glassy eyes and slurred speech.

In addition to field sobriety tests and other blood and urine tests, the police may involve Drug Recognition Evaluators. These experts utilize a well-defined, multi-step program to determine drug impairment. They also examine signs of drug abuse, such as injection marks, and assess factors like pupil dilation, blood pressure, and pulse rate. Moreover, the evaluation process includes a unique set of field sobriety tests specifically designed for drug-related DUI cases.

Consulting an experienced Pittsburgh Drugged Driving Attorney reveals important insights about DUI charges related to prescription drugs. It’s crucial to understand that even if impaired by medication, you can still be charged with DUI. Furthermore, it’s vital to be aware that drug-related convictions fall under the highest level of a three-tier system, leading to stringent penalties, including:

First Offense – Up to six months in prison, fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, one year license suspension, and enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school. Additionally, the court may require participation in a treatment program.

Second Offense – Sentence of 90 days to five years in prison, fines between $1,500 and $10,000, 18 months license suspension, mandatory enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school, treatment program, and use of an IID (Ignition Interlock Device) for a year.

Third Offense – Severe repercussions including one to five years in prison, fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, 18-month license suspension, mandatory treatment program, and installation of an IID for one year.

Keep in mind that a DUI conviction results in a permanent criminal record, potentially impacting your career and leading to increased car insurance premiums. If an accident resulting in injury or death occurs, the situation becomes more complex, as you may face additional civil court trials for damages.

What to Do When Police Pulls You Over?

• Do not attempt to walk away from the arrest.
• Do not admit to consuming alcohol or taking drugs.
• Refrain from answering any questions or making statements without the presence of a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer in Pittsburgh.

Your Probable Defense

In cases involving driving under the influence of drugs, your Pittsburgh DUI Lawyer will work to establish:

• You were not the driver of the vehicle.
• The stop was not lawful, and the DUI checkpoint failed to meet the necessary standards.
• You were not impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• The test was conducted improperly, and the equipment was not calibrated.

How Your Lawyer Will Help You?

Navigating a driving under the influence of drugs charge requires the expertise of a skilled Drugged Driving Attorney in Pittsburgh. Your attorney will provide guidance throughout every stage of your trial, offering the best legal counsel.

To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Pittsburgh DUI lawyer from Logue Law Group, contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI.